Local school systems weighing impact

The financial well-being of local school districts remains cloudy after Monday's announcement of a $6.9 million reduction in state education programs.

Preschool, extended school services (ESS), professional development and family resource centers are just a few of the programs that will be affected by the budget cut.

Between now and June 30, Gov. Ernie Fletcher has required all state cabinets to cut spending by 2.5 percent in an effort to help balance the budget for the next fiscal year, which is projected to experience a shortfall of $300 million.

Frankfort Independent Schools Superintendent Dr. Judith Lucarelli said she learned about the cutsthe same way all Kentucky school districts did, by an e-mail Tuesday from Education Commissioner Gene Wilhoit. Many administrators have unanswered questions about just what this means for their school districts.

Until further information can be gathered and analysis can be conducted, Lucarelli is unsure how the cuts will specifically affect the city schools.